Mandatory Rule Proposed by US FDA for Asbestos Testing of Cosmetics Containing Talc
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / April 28, 2025 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 050.25 to report on a proposed rule by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for mandatory asbestos testing for talc-containing cosmetics.
When inhaled, tiny asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung conditions and cancer. Asbestos contamination of talc can occur naturally in geological environments and/or during mining and processing.
The FDA-2023-N-4225 (RIN 0910–AI82) proposal would align mandatory manufacturer requirements with the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), which aims to enhance consumer safety. It requires the detection of asbestos in talc-containing cosmetic products via the methods of both polarized light microscopy (PLM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED).
Manufacturers will need to maintain detailed records of asbestos testing methods or documentation verification of supplier testing if they rely on supply certificates of analysis (COA). The proposed mandate was open for comments until March 27, 2025.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to inform stakeholders about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 050.25 includes two helpful tables with definitions for ‘cosmetics’, ‘asbestos’ and ‘representative sample’ under FDA-2023-N-4225 (RIN 0910–AI82). It also contains a timeline summary and further information about compliance provisions.
Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 050.25 for more details.
SGS cosmetics and hygiene product services
Through a global network of state-of-the-art laboratories, SGS offers comprehensive testing and certification solutions for cosmetics, household care, absorbent hygiene and disinfectant products. Their experts verify safety and efficacy, simplifying market access while ensuring regulatory compliance. After all, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s cosmetic and hygiene product services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full FDA Proposes Rule for Mandatory Asbestos Testing of Talc-Containing Cosmetics SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Nkem Azu
Toxicologist
+1 (832) 549-4683
Website: www.sgs.com/cpch
LinkedIn: SGS Cosmetics & Personal Care
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